President William Ruto has called on world leaders to embrace affordable housing as a fundamental pillar of social justice and economic transformation, particularly for millions of Africans living in informal settlements.
Speaking during the 2nd World Summit for Social Development held in Doha, Qatar, on Tuesday, November 4, 2025, Ruto highlighted Kenya’s Affordable Housing Programme as a model that delivers both social and economic impact.
“Our Affordable Housing Programme is delivering much-needed shelter while at the same time creating jobs and fostering inclusion,” Ruto said, emphasizing that decent housing can drive inclusive growth and reduce inequality.
According to the President, over 230,000 housing units are currently under construction across Kenya, generating more than 320,000 jobs and supporting thousands of artisans and small businesses. Ruto described the initiative as not merely an infrastructure project but a social justice imperative, aimed at uplifting vulnerable populations.
He tied his message to the principles of the 1995 Copenhagen Declaration, noting that people-centered investments—such as housing, digital skills, and job creation are critical for reducing poverty and inequality.
The Head of State reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to long-term economic transformation, announcing plans to submit to Parliament a comprehensive strategy to transition Kenya into a first-world economy within the next 20 to 30 years.
Ruto also praised Kenya’s labour migration programme, revealing that more than 400,000 Kenyans have secured jobs abroad in the past three years, including 70,000 in Qatar. Additionally, he noted that two million youth have received digital skills training, with 300,000 already working in online jobs.
“Affordable housing and digital empowerment are not just about development—they are about dignity,” Ruto concluded.
